The city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates attracts people from across the globe because, in part, it doesn't tax residents' income. Owning a car in Dubai is a must, because the city's residential hub is quite a distance from the business and shopping areas. There is not much in the way of public transportation. Dubai denizens will find they can purchase either new or used vehicles with relative ease, but will need to follow a few steps to do so. (See References 1 and 2)
Dubai requires car buyers to possess a residency visa. Dubai residents can get the paperwork required for residency visas through their employers. (See Reference 3)
Anyone buying a car in the United Arab Emirates must have a valid UAE driver license. Citizens of other countries may use their driver licenses to obtain an UAE license without a driving test. They must fill out a license form in Arabic, pass an eye exam in Dubai, possess a passport in their native country and pay a fee. (See References 3)
Residents of Dubai may purchase a new automobile through a professional retailer. They can find locations for automobile showrooms in Dubai on the Internet. (See References 4)
Dubai residents can find used cars for sale posted in newspaper ads or on the Internet. They can also purchase a used automobile at car dealerships. In addition, they can bid on a used car at an auction. (See References 4)
Automobile retailers of new and used cars offer buyers the opportunity to finance their purchase. The terms of the car loans are between one and four years. (See References 3)
Car buyers who need financing may also wish to obtain a loan through their bank. The bank will provide the loanee with a series of post-dated checks to be given the car dealer once a month. (See References 5)
Car buyers with the available funds in their bank accounts can pay for their automobile purchase by writing a check. (See Reference 4)
The buyer of a used car in Dubai must transfer ownership. The current and previous owner of the car must fill out an application at Traffic Police, and present the car's license plates, registration card, insurance certificate and proof the previous owner has no outstanding debt on the car in order to transfer ownership. (See References 4)
Anyone who owns a car in Dubai must have it insured. The owner can purchase insurance through an insurance company for roughly four to six percent of the vehicle's value. Car owners must have an UAE driver license, a passport and proof the car was registered under the previous owner or car dealer to buy insurance in Dubai.
Once the car is insured, it must be registered. Car dealerships will help the new owner with this process for new and used automobiles.
